To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department has assessed the economic and social impact of short-term holiday lets on year-round communities, particularly in coastal areas.

The self-catering accommodation sector has seen a significant evolution in recent years, including short-term, self-catering holiday lets.

Short-term holiday lets have contributed to the growth in tourism across the North, attracting visitors who may not have otherwise considered certain destinations. They provide flexibility for visitors and income for property owners.

NISRA statistics from 2024 indicated that 10% of overnight trips taken by external visitors used ‘Rented Accommodation’.

The positive economic impact filters through local communities, with accommodation owners utilising local services and supply chains, and guests spending in local businesses which boosts local economies.

I recognise that the significant increase in the number of self-catering properties, and broader challenges impacting on housing supply, has led to an increased interest in how short-term lets for visitors interact with local housing markets and communities.

I am committed to supporting the Executive's Housing Supply Strategy. My officials are working with officials in the Departments for Communities and Infrastructure as DfC prepares to commission research on how short-term lets may affect local housing markets. The completion of this research will help inform the development of any potential policy interventions by Executive Departments in this area.